Governor’s aide calls for scrapping of security votes

01/08/2016 16:39

Alhaji Rabi’u Idris, the Special Adviser to Gov. Aminu Masari of Katsina State on Legislative Matters, has called for total scrapping of security votes.

Rabi’u said in an interview in Funtua, Katsina state, that such funds should be used to execute meaningful projects. According to him, the security votes are tagged in approved budgets as miscellaneous, without any specific projects attached to the provision, thereby giving the president, governors and local council chairmen the chance to do as they like with it.

Idris, a former member of Katsina State House of Assembly, said scrapping the security votes would enhance accountability and proper utilisation of public funds.

The governor’s aide urged federal lawmakers to support President Muhammadu Buhari in his effort to promote transparency in governance. He criticised ongoing attempt to provide immunity to some lawmakers, describing the move as self-centred and detrimental to democratic growth.

He said Nigerians must oppose the moves through constructive debates, to make the legislators concentrate on their duties. Idris also said current happenings in the National Assembly should make the electorate to ensure that, henceforth, only those with genuine intentions are voted to represent them.

He advised Nigerians to always scrutinise the records of candidates and their capacity to deliver quality leadership, rather than material gains, during elections. According to him, electing the right people will bring about desired changes at all levels and ensure positive transformation.